Papio ursinus (Chacma baboon) 1773 - 1786

"Papio ursinus (Chacma baboon)" is a watercolor by Robert Jacob Gordon, a prominent figure in 18th century South African art. Created between 1773 and 1786, the work depicts a baboon in a naturalistic setting. Gordon, known for his meticulous attention to detail, captures the animal's anatomy and fur texture with precision. This work exemplifies Gordon's interest in natural history, contributing to the growing body of scientific illustration in the era. The image's caption provides a glimpse into Gordon's exploration of the Cape region and his commitment to documenting the region's flora and fauna.